5 Therapeutic Benefits of Adult Coloring

In recent years, adult coloring books have been popularized as a therapeutic tool for adults. Many, through lived experiences, have reported improved health and well-being. Several studies have also pointed out that coloring achieves a distinctive form of mindfulness with therapeutic benefits.

Adult coloring may have been considered a pastime and a less valuable activity. But most recently, the practice has gained consumer attention for its therapeutic benefits in enhancing well-being. Here is a closer look at the therapeutic effect of adult coloring.

Coloring Books and Therapy

Coloring has evolved beyond a mere pastime activity for children to become a beneficial routine for psychological and emotional well-being. As a result, coloring books have been incorporated into different forms of therapy, with a massive influence on numerous spheres. These include culture, religion, leisure, and mental health aspects like mindfulness, anxiety, and stress.

Beyond just the artistic or creative expression of coloring, different iterations of coloring books have been released over the years. Most of these books have been packaged and retailed with descriptions like:

• “Meditative”
• “Spiritual”
• “Wellness”
• “Stress-relieving”

Coloring books have become part of our daily lives. Most are marketed as tools loaded with therapeutic benefits. Notable mentions over the years include:

• Color Yourself Calm: A Mindfulness Colouring Book (by Rowan)
• Slow Down, De-Stress (by Quadrille Publishing)
• Color Me Happy (by Lacy Mucklow)
• The Mindfulness Colouring Book: Anti-Stress Art Therapy for Busy People (by Farrarons)

Therapeutic Benefits of Coloring for Adults

Numerous research findings have highlighted the fundamental value attached to adult coloring in enhancing well-being. Some point to mindful meditation with themes of spirituality, while others highlight it as a self-care practice with themes of social, emotional, and physical health.

Coloring vintage designs of construction structures, cities, mandalas, tattoos, and wild animals could potentially inspire many benefits. Below are some key advantages of coloring as a self-care routine for adults:

1. Stress and anxiety relief

Studies have shown that stress reduction and anxiety management are the primary benefits of coloring for adults. Coloring gives a much-needed break from the daily demands of life to focus on a simple, yet enjoyable and relaxing activity.

Coloring produces a calming effect by slowing down your heart rate and thoughts. The calming effect is particularly beneficial for individuals with stress and anxiety. However, it is crucial to remember that the art of coloring itself cannot replace professional approaches that treat long-term mental health symptoms like depression.

2. Mindfulness and relaxation

Mindfulness has been incorporated into coloring books as a pathway to better health and overall well-being. Research on adult coloring typically evaluates the effectiveness of coloring mandalas on boosting mood and psychological changes. Therefore, despite being a leisure activity, coloring can promote mindfulness.

Mindfulness is the ability to focus on the present moment. The rhythmic nature of coloring, coupled with the focus on picking colors and shapes, induces relaxation and inner peace. Therefore, a single coloring action will create a relaxed atmosphere and stabilize the mind by allowing an individual to pay attention to one simple object or process.

3. It can help you sleep

With the average number of electronics on the rise in every household, getting sufficient sleep is becoming a problem for many people. Coloring has been suggested as a perfect alternative to unwinding without the detrimental effects of blue light-emitting devices.

Coloring will ease stress, promote relaxation, and prepare your body for a great night of sleep. Mandala coloring as part of your bedtime routine is a potentially beneficial activity that could make it easier to get enough sleep.

4. Improves fine motor skills

The act of coloring is a workout that improves fine motor skills, both in children and adults. Adults with certain illnesses are prescribed coloring books for their therapy.

Furthermore, elderly folks can also practice coloring to sharpen their motor skills. This helps in dealing with tremors and shaky hands or joints. Enhanced fine motor skills will manifest through improved ability to perform activities like brushing teeth or holding a cup of tea.

5. Enhanced concentration or focus

Coloring can help you develop focus and better concentration skills through its intricate designs. Adult coloring books feature intricately designed mandalas that would represent a challenge to anyone. Putting your brain to task and accomplishing these complex designs will boost your concentration. Moreover, being deliberately present in the moment and performing one activity is the perfect way to train your brain to focus.

How to Incorporate Coloring into Your Self-Care Routine

Are you intrigued by the therapeutic benefits of coloring? Below are tips and suggestions on how to seamlessly integrate coloring therapy into your self-care routine:

• Choose the right coloring supplies: Invest in quality coloring tools such as markers, pens, gels, and colored pencils that you love using. Get a variety of tools and colors that will make coloring a favorite and enjoyable activity.
• Choose intricate designs: Go for adult coloring books with detailed, wonderful, and intricate designs to inspire you. Select patterns that inspire calmness and serenity.
• Set aside time for coloring: Schedule regular sessions for your coloring in your weekly routine. Setting specific coloring time will ensure you prioritize coloring as a self-care routine. It can be a few minutes to bed or dedicated hours of your weekend.
• Experiment with various techniques: Try experimenting with various blending and coloring techniques. This will evoke your creativity and artistic skills. Play, enjoy, and have fun during your coloring sessions.
• Join a coloring community, club, or group: Social coloring clubs are becoming commonplace. So, consider joining a coloring group in your locality or try online communities where you will connect with people who share the same interests. These groups will cultivate your passion and desire for coloring. As you engage with others, you’ll get support and a sense of belonging.

Final Thoughts on Therapeutic Benefits of Adult Coloring

Coloring has gained attention in recent years as a pathway to well-being. Engaging regularly in this practice is likely to enhance your quality of life. Some of the common therapeutic benefits touted include stress and anxiety relief, improved ability to focus, and a brain workout that could improve one’s motor skills. Starting your coloring journey is also straightforward as it does not require investing in premium coloring tools or working space.